Football in Pakistan Thrives Again

8 world class footballers to visit and play in Pakistan to promote football in Pakistan.

These 8 world class footballers; Robert Pires, Roberto Carlos, Nicolas Anelka, David James, Luis Boa Morte and George Boateng along with the captains Ronaldinho and Ryan Giggs are to visit and play football in Pakistan. The players will team up in a 7-a-side football match. The match is to be held on 8th June and 9th June in Karachi and Lahore respectively. These legendary players are invited by the “UK- based Leisure Leagues” that aims at promoting football in Pakistan. According to The World Group; a company behind “Leisure Leagues” quoted:

“Leisure Leagues existed in three countries before; the UK, the US and the Republic of Ireland. We bought ownership for the remaining 203 countries, while also becoming a partner of the venture in the UK — where the league is headquartered. So Pakistan is the fourth country in the world where Leisure Leagues have been introduced. We plan to take it to the Middle East and Europe after this.”

Football in Pakistan

In Pakistan; cricket loving country, football is not highly regarded on a global scale in Pakistan. However, in recent years, Pakistan has seen an exponential growth in the play of football among youngsters. Leisure Leagues supports the growth of football in Pakistan and aims to achieve global recognition. World Group’s Chief Operating Officer quoted:

“We provide them with grounds that are of an international standard, we provide them with footballs of the highest qualities as well as a trained referee, while also having complete first-aid kits at hand in case an injury takes place.”

He further stated:

“Each 30-minute match costs Rs5,000. Since there are two teams of 10 players apiece, that makes it Rs250 a person.”

This may be a high price but it’s still a small price to pay for international standards and a chance to be recognized globally.